NIGERIA: DHQ Mourns Ex-Spokesman Rabe Abubakar, Vows to Crush Terror Networks

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who died in captivity after being abducted by kidnappers.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, described the late senior officer as a patriotic soldier who served Nigeria with distinction and made significant contributions to the Armed Forces.

According to the statement, Major General Abubakar held several strategic appointments during his career, including serving as spokesperson for various military formations and as Director of Defence Information, where he functioned as spokesman for the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

The DHQ said the late officer made immense contributions to counter-insurgency operations, the professional development of military personnel, and other national assignments. “His commitment to duty and to the unity of Nigeria remains a shining example for all personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” the statement read.

The military high command disclosed that it refrained from making public comments about his abduction while rescue efforts were ongoing. “Every operational resource was deployed in the hope of securing his safe return,” the statement added.

The DHQ noted that the tragic loss had further strengthened the resolve of the Armed Forces to fulfil its constitutional responsibility of defending the country’s sovereignty and protecting citizens.

“We will remain resolute in the discharge of our constitutional mandate to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria and to protect all citizens,” the statement said.

It added that ongoing operations against criminal elements had been intensified in response to the wave of abductions across the country, including that of the late general. “We assure Nigerians that the Armed Forces will not relent until peace and security are restored and those responsible for terrorist activities across the nation are held to account,” the statement stated.